Prevent frost damage to your equipment this winter!

As I’m sure you’ve already noticed, the temperature in the UK is dropping and it won’t be long before we start seeing freezing temperatures!

What can you do to avoid frost damage to your tools and equipment?

Ideally, we recommend taking your portable cleaning equipment, sprayers, floor and upholstery tools, water hoses and other accessories indoors or putting a small oil filled rad in your van.

It is always a good idea to at least empty all the water from your machine & hoses, and ensure fittings are dry, however this alone cannot ensure no damage occurs due to freezing.

For truck mounts which must remain in the vehicle.

Many cleaners use electric heaters with good results. However, this can be a fire hazard and should be used with extreme caution.

When running extension cords between a building and your vehicle, they should be rated for outdoor use. Lay them out in a manner that avoids tampering. If you have multiple cleaning units to protect, do not overload electrical outlets. A blown circuit breaker during the night will leave the equipment unprotected.

Keep the following tips in mind when dealing with winter weather:

Do not attempt to anti-freeze water softeners. The resin inside the softener will be damaged, requiring replacement. Remove softeners from the vehicle and store in a heated building. Also, cleaning liquids susceptible to freeze damage should be removed and stored inside. If you need information on freeze guarding your equipment, contact the Alltec service department for assistance.

During work hours do not allow your unit to sit for long periods of time between jobs. While in use, heat produced from the machine will provide protection for the equipment.

After completing a job do not delay packing up your hoses and tools and closing your vehicle. Ambient temperatures from the equipment will heat the inside of your van for a period of time. Insulating and panelling the walls and ceiling of the van will extend this time period. Insulation will also quiet the machinery noise during those early morning and late night jobs.

Bear in mind, pressure hoses and cleaning tools must also be protected.

No one expects to be caught out in the cold with equipment frozen up. Unfortunately, not a winter passes without service personnel replacing components on equipment for this reason. Here’s some of the more common denials: “I couldn’t have frozen my unit, I always keep a heater in the van”, “I only left it out one night”, “It didn’t get that cold”. Or even “I wrapped it in a duvet and blankets”!

If you do have problems with your equipment not working properly after getting frozen, call us for FREE advice: 01763 208222. We’ll always do what we can to get you up and running again as soon as possible!

Over the holidays we are closed for general business, however, as usual we are available on the phone or via email for emergency advice (if we cannot answer, please leave a message and we will get back to you asap).

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